The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State orchestrated a large-scale mobilization effort over a weekend, convening thousands of party members for a dual-purpose event focused on voter registration and security awareness. Held at the Arca Santa Arena in Ilorin, the event attracted a diverse array of influential figures, including national and state assembly members, high-ranking government officials, party stalwarts, and traditional leaders. This concerted effort underscores the APC’s commitment to strengthening its political base and ensuring its continued dominance in the state. The event served as a platform to disseminate information, galvanize support, and reinforce the party’s message ahead of future elections.
The central theme of the gathering revolved around the importance of voter registration, which was highlighted as the bedrock of political participation and a crucial factor in maintaining the APC’s winning streak in Kwara State. Prince Sunday Fagbemi, the State APC Chairman, emphasized that active participation in the voter registration exercise would not only solidify the party’s position but also serve as a testament to the achievements of both the state and federal governments. He urged party members to actively mobilize others, setting a target of at least 20 new registrants per member. This call to action reflects the party’s strategic focus on expanding its voter base and ensuring a resounding victory in the 2027 elections. Fagbemi linked the party’s success to the performance of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and President Bola Tinubu, highlighting their contributions in areas such as infrastructure development, human capital investment, educational advancements, healthcare improvements, agricultural progress, and the growth of the digital economy.
Salihu Danladi, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, echoed the chairman’s sentiments, urging party members to treat the voter registration exercise with utmost seriousness. To gauge the level of commitment, he engaged the attendees in a voice vote, further emphasizing the significance of the exercise. The presence and active participation of prominent figures like the Speaker underscore the party’s unified approach towards achieving its political objectives. This coordinated effort demonstrates a cohesive strategy aimed at maximizing voter participation and solidifying the party’s political stronghold in the state.
Further bolstering the APC’s initiative, Muhammed Yusuf, a former INEC official, commended the party’s efforts, emphasizing how the sensitization campaign complements INEC’s ongoing work. He clarified the scope of the registration exercise, outlining its relevance for those turning 18, those requiring replacement voter cards, and those wishing to transfer their polling units. This detailed explanation aims to ensure that all eligible individuals are aware of the process and can participate effectively, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive and representative electoral process.
The event also provided a platform for other key figures to address the attendees and highlight the ongoing developmental projects within the state. Abdulqowiyu Olododo, the Commissioner for Works, Abdullateef Gidado Alakawa, Chairman of the Niger River Basin Development Authority, and Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, Chairman of SUBEB, each spoke about the progress being made in various sectors and emphasized the importance of citizen support for security agencies. Prof. Adaramaja also provided specific figures on the voter registration progress, revealing that as of Friday, 89,056 residents had registered online, with 10,547 completing the physical registration process. He urged the remaining 70,000 online registrants to finalize their registration at INEC offices before the December 10 deadline.
In addition to voter registration, the APC emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining security. The party announced plans to recruit 2,600 forest guards to support security agencies in combating crime throughout the state. This proactive approach underscores the party’s commitment to addressing security concerns and ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens of Kwara State. This initiative also demonstrates a recognition of the interconnectedness between security and development, further highlighting the party’s comprehensive approach to governance. The APC’s multi-pronged strategy, encompassing both voter mobilization and security initiatives, reflects a comprehensive approach to strengthening its political position and addressing the needs of the people of Kwara State.
Finally, the context of the APC’s efforts is further illuminated by INEC’s announcement in August regarding the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise. INEC reported that 1,379,342 Nigerians completed the online pre-registration process in the first week, with Kwara State recording 33,726 registrations. This data provides a broader perspective on the ongoing voter registration drive across the country and highlights Kwara State’s contribution to the national effort. The APC’s mobilization drive in Kwara State aligns with the national push for increased voter participation, demonstrating the party’s commitment to strengthening democratic processes at both the state and national levels. The party’s proactive approach reflects a recognition of the vital role that voter registration plays in shaping the future of the country and ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard.
